The Unforgettable Memoir of a Marine Hero at the Battle of Iwo Jima

On February 19, 1945, the United States Marines launched an amphibious assault on the Japanese island of Iwo Jima. The battle that followed was one of the bloodiest and most costly in the Pacific War.

Indestructible: The Unforgettable Memoir of a Marine Hero at the Battle of Iwo Jima

by Jack Lucas

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	22353 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	266 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

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One of the Marines who fought at Iwo Jima was John Basilone. Basilone was a 24-year-old sergeant from Raritan, New Jersey. He had already earned the Navy Cross for his heroism in the Battle of Guadalcanal.

At Iwo Jima, Basilone and his men were assigned to defend a small hilltop known as "Sugar Loaf." The Japanese launched a fierce counterattack against the hilltop, and Basilone's men were quickly outnumbered and outgunned.

Despite the overwhelming odds, Basilone and his men refused to give up. They fought back with everything they had, and they eventually managed to repel the Japanese attack.

Basilone's actions at Iwo Jima earned him the Medal of Honor, the United States' highest military award. He was one of only 28 Marines to receive the Medal of Honor for their actions at Iwo Jima.

Basilone's story is one of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering determination. It is a story that will stay with you long after you finish reading it.

Basilone's Early Life

John Basilone was born on November 4, 1920, in Raritan, New Jersey. His parents were Italian immigrants, and he grew up in a working-class family. Basilone was a gifted athlete and played football and baseball in high school.

After graduating from high school, Basilone worked as a truck driver for a short time. In 1940, he joined the United States Marine Corps.

Basilone's Military Career

Basilone's military career began at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in Parris Island, South Carolina. He quickly rose through the ranks and was promoted to sergeant in 1942.

In 1942, Basilone was deployed to the Pacific War. He fought in the Battle of Guadalcanal, where he earned the Navy Cross for his heroism.

In 1945, Basilone was deployed to Iwo Jima. He fought in the Battle of Iwo Jima, where he earned the Medal of Honor.

Basilone's Death

Basilone was killed in action on February 19, 1945, during the Battle of Iwo Jima. He was 24 years old.

Basilone's body was never recovered. He is listed as missing in action.

Basilone's Legacy

Basilone is remembered as one of the greatest heroes of the United States Marine Corps. His story is one of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering determination. It is a story that will stay with you long after you finish reading it.

In 1949, the United States Navy commissioned a destroyer named the USS Basilone in his honor.

In 2006, the United States Postal Service issued a postage stamp honoring Basilone.

Basilone's story continues to inspire Americans today. He is a reminder of the courage and sacrifice of those who have served in the United States military.

John Basilone was a true American hero. His story is one that will stay with you long after you finish reading it. Basilone's courage, sacrifice, and unwavering determination are an inspiration to us all.

Indestructible: The Unforgettable Memoir of a Marine Hero at the Battle of Iwo Jima

by Jack Lucas

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	22353 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	266 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE